According to the draft ordinance, the German government intends to relieve passport and ID card agencies and digitize administrative processes. At the same time, the fee for identity cards is to be increased. For companies, smooth passport and registration processes are essential, such as for business trips or international staff deployment. The DIHK therefore emphasizes the importance of efficient, secure, and competition-neutral document processes.
Key Points at a Glance
- The fee for the German ID card is set to rise from 37 to 46 euros.
- The fee structure surrounding the PointID system disadvantages private passport photo providers.
- Municipalities keep the photo fee entirely for their administrative expenses and do not pay usage fees to the Federal Printing Office for PointID.
- Impacts on photo specialty shops, automated photo kiosks, and city centers are expected.
Background
The draft bill from the Federal Ministry of the Interior aims to simplify processes in the passport and ID system digitally and increase the cost of issuing an identity card by nine euros to 46 euros. This is due to increased administrative and production costs as well as adjustments for funding the Federal Printing Office's PointID system, which digitally captures passport photos on-site. As municipalities continue to retain the photo fee of six euros entirely, a funding gap arises that is to be covered by general ID card fees. This impacts private providers of passport photo solutions, the photo specialist trade, and kiosk operators, which have invested in secure digital transmission technology. From an economic perspective, there are threats of competitive disadvantages and limitations of choice for citizens and municipalities.
What is Important for Companies
- Delays in the passport and ID system can directly hinder business trips, international assignments, and personnel processes.
- Companies benefit from diverse and market-driven photo and identity solutions—competition keeps prices stable and fosters innovation.
DIHK Demands
- No increase in the identity card fee unless it also funds the PointID system.
- Photo fees should be designed to cover actual costs without distorting competition.
- Ensure municipalities and citizens maintain free choice over external or PointID photo creation.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the freedom of choice in passport photo creation important?
It allows citizens to choose between various options – such as specialized shops, photo booths, or digital services. Competition ensures quality, innovation, and fair prices.
Which industries are particularly affected?
Approximately 1,400 photo specialty stores, photo booth operators and drugstores that offer passport photos. For many businesses, this area accounts for up to 50% of their revenue.
What solution does the DIHK propose?
Fees should solely cover actual administrative and production costs. Free choice in photo creation must be ensured to safeguard competition and innovation.
What opportunities do digital solutions offer?
Private providers can make administrative processes more efficient and reduce costs if they are integrated into government digitalization via clear interfaces.
Download
DIHK statement on the ordinance for relieving the Federal Police and administration in the passport and ID sector (PDF, 126 KB) (only available in German)
- Relevant in topic:
- Wirtschafts- und Finanzpolitik
- Key areas:
-
- Handel
- Bürokratie
Released 13.10.2025
Modified 12.03.2026
Contact
Dr. Ulrike Regele
Director Commerce
Dr. Katrin Sobania
Director Department for Information and Communication Technology | E-Government | Postal Services | IT Security